As we all long for eternity with Christ, we watch in horror the things now unfolding on earth before us. What makes the conflict in Ukraine so real and personal is the immediate access to images and events through broadcast and internet media. Twentieth-century world wars, the U.S. Civil War, and the countless regional wars of mankind in antiquity were understood through the images and what was written, not through sobering ‘live’ events.
We embrace the hope and encouragement through this passage (above) written to believers suffering persecution following Christ’s ascension. We, like many of you, know believers, missionaries, and evangelists in Ukraine who are experiencing unconscionable suffering. Some may even now be with the Lord. Let us continue in prayer for our persecuted partners in the gospel ministry across the world as they stand firm in the hope of Christ. We are co-labors in God’s unshakeable kingdom in which, “we offer to God an acceptable service with reverence and awe.” We must all continue to serve faithfully in the field wherever God has placed us. We will not be shaken! We would ask you to pray and continue to partner with us in the ministry to churches in the Southwest United States. The day of judgment is coming for those who reject the gospel in this life as we will see the shaking of the heavens and earth under the wrath of God, “for our God is a consuming fire.” The message and the hope of the Gospel is our strength and our purpose in ministry. Let us continue in faithfulness – for His glory.
Update on Nancy’s Health
We are rejoicing that Nancy continues to make daily incremental improvements with respect to her recent pulmonary and cardiac challenges. The day after Christmas (‘21) she was hospitalized for several days to recover from heart arrhythmias and low oxygen levels. She is stronger day by day and we have returned to our ministry travel schedule (see itinerary) after staying close to home during January. Thank you for your continued prayers!